Sophomore Virginia Bulger cherished the few days in early December 2011 she spent with her dad. Together, they strung lights, hung ornaments, and set up the Christmas tree in anticipation of the upcoming holidays.
But Virginia’s dad would not be there on Christmas morning to open presents with her. Instead, he left two weeks earlier on an assignment in Afghanistan.
“We experienced a lot of holidays without my dad,” Virginia Bulger said.
Five years ago, Army Major Pat Bulger returned from an assignment in Kosovo, a region in southeastern Europe. Shortly thereafter, he left for Afghanistan, where he trained older men who could no longer fight to use Microsoft Office so they weren’t forced to retire.
Although they were not in fear of his life, the distance had an impact on the all-girl family’s morale.
“My dad is the man of the house. He means a lot to me and my family,” Virginia Bulger said. “When he’s gone it’s the worst time of my life. There’s this feeling missing when your dad is not there.”
Approximately a year ago, Pat Bulger returned home to his family.
“I am very relieved and happy to be home this year,” Pat Bulger said.
Pat Bulger was recently promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, and now will only have to travel once a month.
Senior Robert Cunliffe, whose mother works in military logistics, has also experienced the absence of a loved one during the holidays.
“It was sad not having my mom home for the holidays,” Cunliffe said.
The winter holidays are a time known for uniting family. However, students with parents in the military often feel an unmistakable void due to the absence of a parent.
Freshman Siria Aparicio’s father’s return home for the holidays is still undetermined.
“My father has missed many holidays, especially around Christmas time,” said Aparicio. “It was upsetting.”
Aparicio dealt with the aspect of fear while her father was away in the past, putting more of an emphasis on the tension of him being absent.
“It worried us when he didn’t call and we were always scared,”
Aparicio said. “Family is meant to be together during the holidays.”